Amarnath Yatra suspended early due to rain-damaged tracks

Amarnath Yatra

Authorities have suspended this year’s Amarnath Yatra a week before its scheduled end, citing damage to the pilgrimage routes caused by recent heavy rains and the urgent need for repairs, officials announced on Saturday.

Originally set to conclude on August 9, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan, the yatra began on July 3. However, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has decided to halt the pilgrimage from August 3 onwards due to "critical repair and maintenance works" needed along the twin routes of Baltal and Pahalgam.

“Due to recent heavy rainfall and the requirement for track maintenance along both axes of the Shri Amarnathji Yatra route, yatra movement has been closed,” said Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri.

He added, “With the deployment of men and machinery for repair work starting tomorrow, it will not be feasible to resume the pilgrimage. Hence, the yatra will remain suspended from August 3 on both routes.”

Despite the early closure, over 4.1 lakh pilgrims visited the holy cave shrine this year. In comparison, the 2023 yatra had recorded more than 5.1 lakh visitors.

The Amarnath Yatra, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimages, sees lakhs of devotees undertake a strenuous journey to the cave shrine located in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. The trek, while scenic, often faces challenges from unpredictable weather conditions, and safety remains a top priority for the administration.

Officials have assured that all registered pilgrims and stakeholders will be informed, and necessary arrangements are being made to assist those still in the region.